The pecan tree is a largetree, growing to 20–40 m (65-130 ft) in height, taller trees to 50–55 m (165-180 ft) with a trunk up to 2 m (10 ft) diameter. A 10-year-old sapling will stand about 5 m (16 ft)

Pecan trees may live and bear ediblenutsfor more than three hundred years

What’s Inside?

The pecan nut itself is dark brown with a rough that starts out green and turns brown at maturity, at which time it splits off in four sections to release the thin-shelled nut. The nuts of the Pecan are edible, with a rich,butteryflavor. They can be eaten fresh or used incooking. Many Americans enjoy pecan pie.

An American Native

Pecan trees are native to the United States.Thomas Jeffersonplanted pecan trees in his nut orchard at his beautiful home, Monticello, in Virginia .

In 1919 the 36th Texas Legislature made the Pecan tree thestate treeof Texas.This also is Alabama's state tree. In southeast Texas, the Texas Pecan Festival is celebrated every year.

Pecans May Be Good For Your Health!

The pecan nut has a high nutritional value because it is rich in protein, vitamins, carbohydrates and nut oil. (Warning: If you are allergic to nuts do not eat pecans).

Clinical research published in theJournal of Nutrition(September 2001) found that eating about a handful of pecans each day may help lower cholesterol levels similar to what is often seen with cholesterol-lowering medications.]Research conducted at the University of Georgia has also confirmed that pecans contain plant sterols, which are known for their cholesterol-lowering ability.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has acknowledged this and related research and approved the following qualified health claim: "Scientific evidence suggests, but does not prove, that eating 1.5 ounces per day of most nuts, such as pecans, as part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol, may reduce the risk of heart disease."

Pecans Stay Fresh

The nuts can be stored at room temperature for as long as 6 months before they are marketed. Shelled nuts

realize a much higher price than unshelled nuts, but the processing equipment is very expensive and most

producers market cooperatively or through a processor. After processing the nuts are usually packed in

vacuum-sealed packages, which means that they can be stored for a very long time.